Where is the Algarve Located?
Where is the Algarve?The Algarve is located in the southernmost region of Portugal, stretching along the Atlantic Ocean and sharing a border with Spain.
The Algarve is known for its stunning coastlines, cultural landmarks, and beautiful climate, the Algarve is a premier destination for beachgoers and travelers in Europe. It offers an ideal mix of historical significance, natural beauty, and modern travel conveniences.
Geographical Location of the Algarve
The Algarve lies at the southwestern tip of Europe, forming the southern coastline of Portugal.
This region is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on both the west and south, and it shares a land border with Spain to the east.
The Algarve’s unique location makes it a pivotal point for European tourism, offering a blend of maritime influence and Mediterranean landscapes.
Portugal | |||
Major City |
Where is the Algarve with proximity to Major European Cities
The Algarve’s geographical location makes it easily accessible from many major European cities, ensuring it is a popular getaway destination.
Visitors can reach the Algarve by air, road, or rail.
City | |||
---|---|---|---|
Lisbon, Portugal | |||
Madrid, Spain | |||
London, UK |
Regions of the Algarve
The Algarve is divided into three distinct sub-regions: Eastern Algarve, Central Algarve, and Western Algarve.
Each of these regions offers a unique blend of landscapes, activities, and cultural attractions, ensuring that travelers can find something that suits their preferences.
| | |
---|---|---|
Eastern Algarve | A more peaceful and traditional area, home to quaint fishing villages and nature reserves such as the Ria Formosa | Tavira, Olhão,Vila Real de Santo António |
Central Algarve | The region’s most developed area, featuring popular beach resorts, shopping, and nightlife. | Faro, Albufeira, Vilamoura |
Western Algarve | Known for its rugged coastlines, surf spots, and historic towns. | Lagos, Sagres, Portimão |
Eastern Algarve
The Eastern Algarve is characterized by its serene environment, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter experience.
This area is famous for the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a protected lagoon system that is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
The town of Tavira is known for its historical charm and Moorish influences.
Central Algarve
The Central Algarve is the heart of the region, offering a lively mix of beaches, nightlife, and culture.
Faro, the capital city, blends modern conveniences with a rich history dating back centuries.
Resorts like Albufeira and Vilamoura attract beachgoers with their golden sands and vibrant nightlife scenes.
Western Algarve
For adventure lovers, the Western Algarve offers stunning cliffs, caves, and some of the best surf spots in Europe.
Towns like Lagos are steeped in history, while Sagres is known for its dramatic coastline and role in Portugal’s maritime past.
Visitors can explore landmarks such as Ponta da Piedade, with its striking rock formations.
Where is the Algarve and how to Get to the Algarve ?
Traveling to the Algarve is simple and easy thanks to its excellent transport connections, whether you’re arriving by air, road, or rail.
Depending where you are travelling from you may have more than one option of travel.
Below we have outlined the main travel options to get to the Algarve.
How to get to the Algarve by Air Travel?
The Algarve’s only airport is the Faro International Airport Gago Coutinho (FAO), which offers direct flights from major European cities such as London, Berlin, and Paris.
Where is the Algarve Faro Airport? Faro Airport is a short drive from many of the Algarve’s most popular destinations, making it the ideal entry point for international travelers.
- Direct Flights: Regular flights from London, Berlin, Paris, and Lisbon.
- Direct flights from New York/Newark-Faro flight is scheduled to begin in May 2025. Book your direct flights to the Algarve from New York
- Seasonal Charters: Additional seasonal flights are available during peak travel times.
How to get to the Algarve by Car?
If you prefer to drive, the Algarve is connected by the A22 (Via do Infante) motorway, which spans the length of the region.
The Algarve is also easily accessible from Lisbon and Spain by road.
- Distance from Lisbon: 278 km (~2.5 hours by car)
- Distance from Seville, Spain: 200 km (~2 hours by car)
This makes the Algarve an excellent destination for a road trip or for those traveling with rental cars.
How to get to the Algarve by Train or Bus
Portugal’s well-developed rail system connects Lisbon & Porto to the Algarve, with regular trains running between the these cities.
The journey from Lisbon to Faro takes around 3 hours. From Porto is will take around 5 hours. This offers great scenic views along the way.
Unfortunately there are no direct connections from the Algarve to Spain or
.
If you choose to travel by bus you have several options within Portugal but, also in Europe. Main Express Buses from Spain and the majority of the European cities arrive at the Faro Bus Terminal regularly. Check to see if your city has a Bus to the Algarve with the best rates.
Why the Algarve’s Location is Perfect for Travelers?
he Algarve’s location offers much more than just beautiful beaches. Its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and accessibility make it one of Europe’s top destinations.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape, an adventurous surf trip, or a deep dive into history, the Algarve has something for everyone.
- Stunning Beaches: From the Praia da Marinha to the famous Benagil Cave, the Algarve’s coastline is full of natural wonders.
- Rich History: The Algarve is full of historical significance, from its Moorish past to its role in the Portuguese Age of Discovery. Find out more history in our Guide to the History of the Algarve.
- Mild Mediterranean Climate: Even though the Algarve is not on the Mediterranean it still benefits from its climate. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, the Algarve offers a perfect destination for year-round travel.
Region | ||
---|---|---|
Annual Sunshine Hours | ||
Andalusia, Spain | 31°C | |
Côte d'Azur, France |
Where is the Algarve located? Is the Algarve part of Spain?
No, the Algarve is located in Portugal. Although it borders Spain, the Algarve is distinctively Portuguese regarding culture, language, and governance.
Best Time to Visit the Algarve
The Algarve is a year-round destination, but depending on your preferences, certain times of the year may be better suited for your visit:
- Summer (June – August): Perfect for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts, but expect larger crowds.
- Spring (March – May): Offers mild weather, ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
- Autumn (September – November): A quieter time to visit, with warm temperatures and fewer tourists.
- Winter ( December – February) – Cooler weather. Night and early morning temperature can reach as low as 5-8 ºC. During the day temperatures can rise to 15º – 18ºC.
FAQ - Where is the Algarve & What do I Need to Know Before I Go?
What is the Currency?
The Currency used in the Algarve Portugal is Euros.
What is the Voltage used in the Algarve?
Portugal typically uses Type C and Type F outlets with a standard voltage of 230V and also a frequency of 50Hz. The most common outlet today is Type F. Find out if you need a travel adapter for Portugal